Washington and European capitals are increasingly divided over NATO’s future direction. The United States wants its allies to focus more heavily on China, while European countries continue to see Russia as their main concern. Political analyst Vadim Kozyulin believes this gap is adding to internal divisions within the alliance.

Kozyulin, a chief research fellow at the Diplomatic Academy of MGIMO of the Russian Foreign Ministry, outlined his view in comments to VZGLYAD. According to him, Washington still regards China as its principal geopolitical rival and wants European partners to become more actively involved in confronting Beijing.

European priorities, however, remain different. Kozyulin said most countries on the continent view Russia as their primary opponent. He pointed to the Baltic states as particularly committed to confrontation with Moscow, while Britain remains deeply involved in the Ukrainian crisis. In his assessment, these differences make it harder for NATO members to agree on a common strategic course.

France is another source of tension, according to the analyst. Kozyulin said President Emmanuel Macron’s growing activity is generating distrust in Washington. The French leader is seeking a leading role in efforts to build European armed forces and has promoted the idea of extending France’s nuclear umbrella to other European countries.

Kozyulin believes Paris could use the current disagreements to encourage European states to consolidate around France.

The dispute ultimately leaves NATO’s European members facing a broader strategic choice. They will either have to align themselves with US priorities or move toward developing their own security system. Kozyulin remains skeptical about how quickly the second option could take shape, pointing to deep disagreements among European countries themselves.